Fifa issue Asiagate appeals deadline

FIFA has given May 23 as the deadline for players, administrators and officials implicated in the match-fixing scandal to respond to the allegations in writing, as the world’s soccer governing body moves to finalise the case.

BY BRIAN NKIWANE & KELVIN MAPASURE

Zifa banned players and officials for allegedly participating in match-fixing in Asia.

Fifa wrote to Zifa on Friday advising the association that those slapped with life and other bigger bans and had not appealed against the bans have until May 23 to write to the supreme body, explaining what they know about their alleged participation in the Asiagate scandal.

“Fifa wrote to Zifa informing them about this development. They have been given an ultimatum to respond to the allegation straight to Fifa.

The world football governing body made it clear that the Fifa disciplinary committee will go ahead and finalise the case with the evidence that they have from Zifa, if the listed people fail to co-operate,” said the source.

From the host of football administrators, match official and media personnel that were banned, only a few managed to raise the appeals fee which Zifa pegged at US$6 000.

The six who managed to appeal against life and 10-year bans are Herald Senior Sports Editor Robson Sharuko, former Warriors coach Sunday Chidzambwa, former CAPS United coach Taurai Mangwiro, Thomas Sweswe, Method Mwanjali and Luke Masomere.

Mangwiro and Masomere had their cases heard and finalised and they have since made a comeback to domestic football.